No matter how high your backsplash is, from 4 inches up the wall to the full height between the countertop and the cabinets, the first tiles are placed in the same location. The starting point of tiling the backsplash is the same whether you're placing the tiles horizontally, vertically or diagonally.

The Starting Location

Place the first line of tiles at the base of the backsplash along the edge of the countertop. If the countertop is not tiled, measure the backsplash and mark the middle point with a pencil mark. This is the place to put the center of the first tile. For tiled countertops, find the tile that is in the center, and line up the backsplash tile with this so that the grout lines of this, and all subsequent tiles, match those on the countertop. Use a level to ensure that the first tile is straight. Applying the first tile in this location ensures that the backsplash will be symmetrical at each end as you'll cut the end tiles identically.

About the Author

Christina Ash has been writing since 1982, throughout her career as a computer consultant, anthropologist and small-business owner. She has published work in various business, technology, academia and popular books and journals. Ash has degrees in computer science, anthropology and science and technology studies from universities in England, Canada and the United States.